Governmental Regulators Continue to Set Retail Utility Prices
Utility prices for retail customers continue to be set by governmental regulators. For a while, it seemed as if the promise of energy deregulation and retail wheeling would reduce the need for customers to participate in the regulatory process. In an era of regulatory uncertainty, utility rate cases became less frequent while low inflation held down utility costs.

With Deregulation on Hold, Utilities Are Again Filing for Rate Hikes
With energy deregulation on hold in much of the U.S., utilities have again started to file rate cases, proposing significant increases in retail electric prices and gas distribution charges. Along with demanding rate hikes, utilities are also seeking to shift more price risk onto customers.

Large Customers and Others Need Representation in the Regulatory Process
As long as prices continue to be regulated, customers need to be represented in the rate-setting process. Rate setting involves knowledge of utility accounting, economics, engineering, finance and law. At Dahlen, Berg & Co., we have a long history of success in bringing together these disciplines to effectively represent the interests of customers, through our rate regulation and litigation support work.

In our regulatory engagements before state utilities commissions and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC), our approach is to frame the important issues and explain complex issues clearly, so that regulators are able to make the right choices. We often take the lead in cases and work with legal counsel throughout the analysis, discovery, testimony and briefing stages.

Example Clients

• Customers for CIP Reform (MN)
• Mason City Employers Group (IA)
• Office of Nebraska Public Advocate

To learn more, e-mail James Larson or call (612) 252-6524.